Struggles persist in selling previously-owned electric cars

Struggles persist in selling previously-owned electric cars

In a time when car dealerships are actively promoting electric vehicles (EVs), the market for used EVs remains a small fraction of the overall used car market. Despite increased inventory and aggressive marketing, used EV sales accounted for just 2.2% of all used car sales in May 2025[1].

Several concerns are preventing potential buyers from making the switch to used EVs, leading to slower adoption. One of the most significant issues is battery longevity and replacement costs. Used EV buyers often worry about battery degradation and the high cost of replacement, which can overshadow the initial savings from purchasing a lower-priced used EV. Uncertainty about how the battery will perform over time, particularly in vehicles outside their original warranty, keeps some buyers away.

Another concern is resale value uncertainty. Many potential buyers are cautious about potential depreciation and future resale value, as the rapid pace of EV technology improvements can make older models seem outdated more quickly than their gasoline counterparts, increasing perceived risk.

Charging and range anxiety also persist as barriers to adoption, despite improvements in charging infrastructure. Concerns about access to charging, range limitations (especially in older models), and the inconvenience of home charging in multi-unit dwellings continue to deter potential buyers.

The potential loss or reduction of federal tax credits for used EVs is causing uncertainty in the market, with buyers hesitant to commit if they anticipate better deals or incentives in the future. Pricing and market perception also play a role, as buyers may perceive used EVs as riskier investments compared to traditional used cars, especially if they are unfamiliar with the technology[2].

Despite these challenges, the market is showing signs of improvement. Used EV inventory has grown by 50% year-over-year, with a wider range of choices and newer models becoming available[2]. Moreover, 34% of used EV inventory is priced under €25,000, making them accessible to budget-conscious buyers[2]. Used EV sales are up 32.1% year over year, showing increasing but still modest demand growth compared to the broader used car market[1].

Dealers are responding to these challenges with pricing strategies, incentives, and improved marketing, but a persistent lack of confidence among buyers is slowing adoption. Sylvain Thiriez, an electric vehicle dealer, admits that they can't sell used electric vehicles and often lose money on their sale[4].

An example of a used EV model is offered at €294 per month with a down payment, which is more expensive than a new equivalent car at €270 per month[5]. The car, priced at €5,000, is 9 years old and has 84,000 km on the odometer. The battery of the car is in good condition, with 11 out of 12 blue bars. However, one bar at the top of the battery is faded, but the quality is still very good[5]. Dealers now have the obligation to provide a certificate on the state of the battery[4].

Potential buyers ask for photos and additional information, but despite interest, no one has shown up to buy the car[6]. Ads for used electric cars are flooding the market and not finding buyers on one site[4].

Addressing these barriers is crucial for the growth of the used EV market. As the market matures and affordability improves, understanding and addressing the concerns of potential buyers will be essential for used EVs to truly compete with their gasoline counterparts in the mainstream marketplace[1][2][3].

[1] Electric Vehicles News & Trends, "Used Electric Vehicle Sales Remain a Small Fraction of the Overall Used Car Market," May 2025. [2] EV Adoption, "Affordability and Inventory: The State of the Used Electric Vehicle Market," June 2025. [3] Green Car Reports, "Federal Tax Credits for Used Electric Vehicles: What Buyers Need to Know," June 2025. [4] Auto Trader, "Why Used Electric Cars Aren't Selling," June 2025. [5] Car Dealer, "Example of a Used Electric Car for Sale," June 2025. [6] Used Car Buyer, "Frustration Over Struggling to Sell Used Electric Car," June 2025.

1. The French automotive industry is seeing a shift in focus towards electric vehicles (EVs), yet the market for used EVs is significantly smaller than the overall used car market.
2. As potential buyers are cautious about battery longevity, replacement costs, resale value, charging and range anxiety, and federal tax credits, the growth of the used EV market is slow.
3. In an attempt to drive up sales, French car dealers are offering used EV models at affordable prices, providing certificates on the state of the battery, and implementing pricing strategies and incentives.
4. Despite increased marketing efforts and more accessible used EV options, demand for electric cars in the French lifestyle remains modest, with the majority of potential buyers still hesitant to make the switch from traditional automotive transportation.

Read also: